Schloss Neuschwanstein: A Glimpse Of The Famous Fairytale Castle

Neuschwanstein was built for the Bavarian King Ludwig II (1845-1886); it was begun in 1868 but never really completed. The king saw his castle as a monument to the culture and concept of monarchy prevailing in the Middle Ages, which he greatly admired and wanted to recreate. Built and furnished in medieval styles but equipped with the latest technology of the day, it is the most famous historical building in the world. – (excerpt from Bayerische Schlosserverwaltung)

Everyone who has a deep fascination with fairy-tales and castles will surely fall in love with Schloss Neuschwanstein. Not only with the castle itself but with the scenery that surrounds it. I only saw this castle in Travel Channel before and by just watching it, I had this feeling of excitement that one day I’ll get to see it in person. The husband who noticed my eagerness, plus the fact that it is on top of my bucket list was convinced to book a particular tour that included Neuschwanstein Castle in the itinerary. That moment came last summer and I couldn’t be happier and excited to have a glimpse of what’s inside the majestic castle.

As we were getting closer to the place, the caste was becoming more visible.  Sitting on top of the hill with the backdrop of the Bavarian Alps is the magnificent Schloss Neuschwanstein. The castle that I have been dreaming for so long is right in front of my very eye. It was truly a spectacular sight.

Arriving at the place, I was literally awed by its grandness. The picturesque views made me speechless. It’s really a paradise! If you have read my previous blog about the fairy-tale sights, you can see how picturesque the place is. (Read  15 Photos Of Fairytale Sights You’ll See When Cruising The Bavarian Alps)

The castle is approximately 20 to 30 minutes walk uphill from the parking lot. If you have enough time to spend you can follow the trekking trails that leads to the castle. However tourists with limited time  has options of either taking a bus or hiring a horse drawn carriage.

The horse drawn carriage will actually give you the vibe like you’re back in the olden times wherein horses were the main mode of transportation. However, Derick and I didn’t like the feeling of having comfort at the expense these gentle animals. Although these horses are meant for the job and not maltreated, we still can’t stand seeing them suffer.

So we chose the bus and had a short walk up to the castle. I cannot remember exactly, but I think we paid a couple of euros for a one way bus ride. Then after our tour inside the castle Derick and I opted to walk back to the meeting place since its easier walking downhill than up. I even had opportunities of taking more pictures on our way down.

As we reached the top, the breathtaking views welcomed us right at the entrance of the castle. It was simply stunning and there were lots of greenery. Definitely summer is the best time to visit this place.

Castle entrance

Entrance to the courtyard

At the courtyard, our group gathered as we waited for our guided tour inside. Each group were given a specific schedule to tour inside the castle with an English speaking guide or any preferred language. The castle has a very strict NO PHOTOGRAPHY policy. All throughout the tour my camera was turned off and its difficult to sneak a shot because there were CCTV cameras in every corner. Thanks to the brilliant minded husband, he bought a book and scanned some photos in it so I can share it with you guys.

The interiors are very impressive and each of the items were properly maintained to preserved it’s original form.

The miniature Neuschwanstein Castle display in the museum.

The kitchen is the only area wherein photography is allowed.

Neuschwanstein castle is not the only attraction in Schwangau. Actually, I just learned during our visit that there was another castle that is equally interesting as the Neuschwanstein and that is Hohenschwangau Castle.

Peeking through the windows of the Neuschwanstein you can see the amazing views of the lakes and in between is the Hohenschwangau Castle.

Schloss Hohenschwangau

The Hohenschwangau castle was built by King Maximilian II of Bavaria in the 19th century. It was the childhood residence of King Ludwig II.

One of the things that add to the picturesque vistas of Schloss Neuschwanstein and Schloss Hohenschwangau is the stunningly beautiful Alpsee lake. Lying beneath the two castles, this lake has the clearest emerald water you would see and is also surrounded by the lush mountains of the Bavarian Alps.

Alongside the lake are restaurants and cafes that offers alfresco seats to enjoy the marvelous views while enjoying some drinks.

Although the Neuschwanstein castle might not have a significant ‘happy ever after’ love story there is, however, it inspired many fairy-tale stories. And if you have a thing with something magical, then this castle should be on top of your bucket list. Frankly, I haven’t gotten enough of this place and given another chance I will definitely spend days here so as to enjoy my very own fairy-tale moments.

How about you, have you been to any castle? What’s your favorite one?